After my arrival in Tirana, I rented a car and spent a few days touring the beautiful Albanian Riviera. In the end, I decided to Ksamil for a quiet retreat. I had only heard that Ksamil was packed and noisy. It was a nice surprise to me. Instead of noise, I found silence, which produced a lovely vibe that immediately charmed me.
Maybe it was the spring sun or the deserted beaches, but Ksamil had a calming charm, a place where time seems to slow down just enough to let you unwind. Southern Albania is a perfect choice for a trip in April or May; the weather is nice, and the crowds are low so you can have everything to your own self.
These were the five wonderful things to do in Ksamil that I can’t recall and that made my heart melt entirely. Besides, I discovered some secret spots during my trip that made me love this side of Albania even more.
Top things to do in Ksamil, Albania
Ksamil is definitely a place in Albania among very few where driving is not a headache.
Most of the hotels and stays have their own parking spots, which is already a small luxury in itself.
And truth be told, after having experienced Saranda, where parking even in high season is a kind of battle you lose every day – Ksamil seemed like entering a calmer world.
In Saranda, you can keep going round the same streets for hours, getting stuck in the traffic and slowly losing your mind.
But in Ksamil, you come, park, take a deep breath and you instantly feel lighter.
What actually stayed with me the most were the little things that Ksamil provides without even trying.
The beaches looked like the artists had painted them with soft, dreamy colors that combination of turquoise water and very white sand that almost makes you stop and simply take it in.
The traditional food seemed to be really homemade, as if every dish was a living with the story handed down through the generations.
And the nature just a couple of minutes from the town was like a different world: deserted roads, rolling hills and that golden Albanian light which makes everything a little bit more poetic than it really is.
If I were telling a friend this over coffee, I’d say:
“Just go to Ksamil. It is peaceful, it is lovely, and it gives you those small emotional moments which you keep long after your trip is over.”
How to get to Ksamil, Albania?
Basically, traveling to Ksamil is easy, but the thing is that there is no direct bus from Tirana to Ksamil. However, do not be discouraged by that.
First, you can take a bus from Tirana to Saranda and then catch a local bus or take a taxi to Ksamil.
The bus ride from Tirana to Saranda lasts 4-5 hours, but the views along the road are so nice that it doesn’t seem that long waiting.
But if you ask me? The least complicated and most pleasant method is to drive.
I thought it was such a great move to rent a car right at the airport of Tirana and travel down to southern Albania.
It makes for an excellent and affordable rental car in addition to a gorgeous drive and being able to stop where you want-beaches, viewpoints, small coastal villages.
It really makes the trip part of the fun.
Chasing Sun and Sea Across the Ksamil Islands
Without a doubt, Ksamil deserves to be called the “Maldives of Europe”.
The beaches here are spectacular light and soft beaches, water with a gradient of blues and that serene, dreamy atmosphere that you would only find in places which are still relatively untouched.
Right next to the main beach, you will see a bunch of small islands without people.
They are close enough to be reached by kayak or boat and there you will find quiet little spots perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling in water that is unbelievably clear.
I practically forced myself to visit almost every beach in Ksamil, and I can assure you that it is the hidden ones that you will become enamored with.
My advice could not be more simple: Go a little bit away from the town center.
The further you get, the more silent and serene it becomes the kind of places where you can hear the water, feel the sun, and lose track of time in the best way possible.
Best Beaches in Ksamil, Albania
Lori Beach
Lori Beach ended up being my absolute favourite find.
Tucked away on the southern end of Ksamil, this gorgeous white-sand beach feels like a little escape of its own.
There’s a lovely restaurant right by the water and plenty of comfortable sunbeds and umbrellas, so you can spend the whole day relaxing without a worry.
Prices for sunbeds in Ksamil change from place to place, but at Lori Beach you can expect to pay around $10–15 for a standard set.
And honestly, with those views and that soft water, it’s worth every bit.
Bora Bora Beach
Bora Bora Beach in Ksamil is a small but charming spot, the kind of place you instantly settle into without trying.
It has a cosy beach bar the Bora Bora Beach Bar where you can grab a drink, cool off, and just enjoy the view.
There are plenty of facilities too, so whether you want to try a bit of watersports or simply stretch out in the sun, you’re covered.
Just a heads-up: I can imagine this place getting very busy in high season.
It’s tiny, popular, and there aren’t many parking spots around.
But if you visit a little earlier in the day or outside peak months, it’s a lovely beach to relax, swim, and spend a slow, easy afternoon by the water.
Ksamil Beach
Ksamil Beach is stunning the water is crystal-clear, and the vibe is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
That said, it gets really busy in high season, and the crowds can feel overwhelming.
There’s a good selection of sun loungers right by the water, which are awesome for soaking up the sun.. though some of them are showing their age.
The restaurants nearby are convenient but be prepared for prices to jump during peak season.
Despite the hustle, it’s still a beautiful spot worth visiting, especially if you go early in the day or just outside the busiest months
Water Sports in Ksamil, Albania
If you love being in the water, Ksamil is a little slice of paradise. Snorkeling, swimming, and other water sports are among the top things to try here.
Most of the beaches are stony, which makes the water incredibly clear perfect for spotting colorful fish and underwater life.
I always bring my own mask, but don’t worry if you forget there are plenty of places to rent snorkeling gear.
One experience that completely blew me away was the Exploring the Hidden Wonders of Karaburun speedboat tour.
It’s an 8-hour adventure with swimming and snorkeling along the most stunning, untouched coastline.
Honestly, it felt like diving into a Sardinian lagoon the water, the views, the hidden coves magical.
If you’re in Albania, this is not just a tour, it’s a memory you’ll carry a lifetime.
Trying Local Cuisine in Ksamil, Albania
Food in Ksamil was a wonderful surprise it quickly became my second favorite town for traditional Albanian cuisine, just after Budapest.
Tasting the local flavors is one of the absolute must-do experiences here.
The seafood is incredibly fresh, and the town is full with restaurants serving authentic Albanian dishes that truly delight the senses.
I fell in love with simple yet unforgettable combinations: crabs and grilled fish paired with local vegetables, or baked beef served with creamy white cheese.
There are a couple of standout restaurants I can’t recommend enough the kind of places where every bite tells a story of Albanian tradition and freshness.
Honestly, exploring Ksamil through its food made the trip feel richer and more personal, like you’re truly tasting the soul of the town.
Top Restaurants in Ksamil, Albania
If you’re in Ksamil, make sure to visit Basilico Restaurant and The Museum Restaurant (my personal favorite), which charms with traditional decor and authentic Albanian dishes.
Some of my favorite dishes in Albania include:
- Grilled fish with fresh vegetable salad and creamy Albanian white cheese.
- Baked beef seasoned with herbs.
- Tavë Kosi, a traditional lamb and yogurt dish that literally melts in your mouth.
And don’t miss the local olives from the market so simple, yet so incredible!
For dessert lovers, Ksamil won’t disappoint:
- Classic Tiramisu
- Hasude, a traditional Albanian sweet
- And the freshest local fruits
Trust me, these flavors are the kind that stay with you for a long time.
A Trip to Gjirokastër and the Blue Eye
One of my favorite day trips from Ksamil was to the Blue Eye Spring, or Syri i Kaltër.
This natural wonder is mesmerizing crystal-clear blue waters bubbling up from the depths, framed by lush greenery and surrounded by peaceful hiking trails.
It’s the kind of place where you can just stand and lose track of time, feeling completely immersed in nature.
On the way back, I stopped in Gjirokastër, a town that feels like stepping back in time.
Perched on the slopes of the Gjerë Mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage site is often called the “City of Stone.”
Wandering its cobbled streets, I admired centuries-old Ottoman architecture and traditional stone houses that seem to whisper stories of the past.
At the Old Town, I sipped a glass of raki and chatted with locals, whose warmth and eagerness to share their tales made the visit feel personal, authentic, and unforgettable.
Take a Day Trip to Corfu (Greece)
If you’re in Ksamil or Saranda, a quick escape to Corfu is an absolute must.
Ferries run multiple times a day between Saranda and Corfu, especially during high season, making it easy to plan a day trip.
The ride is short and scenic, taking about 30 to 45 minutes, giving you just enough time to enjoy the sparkling waters and coastal views along the way.
Tickets are easy to book either online through various websites or directly with the ferry companies. Prices are very reasonable, usually ranging between $10–35 for a one-way ticket.
Stepping off the ferry, you’ll find yourself in a charming Greek island full of narrow streets, seaside cafes, and colorful architecture a perfect little adventure just a short hop from Albania.
Visit the Ancient City of Butrint
If you’re thinking of heading to Saranda, I’d suggest pausing for a moment it’s just a 20-minute drive north from Ksamil, but it’s also one of the most touristy spots in Albania (along with Vlore and Durres).
Instead, take a step into the quieter, more enchanting side of southern Albania.
Just a short drive from Ksamil lies the ancient ruins of Butrint, nestled within the beautiful Butrint National Archaeological Park.
Wandering through the park is like stepping back in time Greek and Roman ruins sit peacefully amidst lush greenery, with a serene lake reflecting the surrounding landscape.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most captivating experiences near Ksamil, offering a perfect mix of history, nature, and quiet charm that you’ll remember long after your visit.
If you love sightseeing, Butrint has a few highlights you won’t want to miss:
Visit the Castle a favorite for organized tours. Entry to Butrint National Park, which includes the archaeological site and the museum in the Acropolis castle, is around 1000 LEK (~$10).
Take a 3-hour boat tour to explore the White Fortress, where history meets stunning nature.
The true magic of Butrint lies in this perfect blend of ancient ruins and serene landscapes a place where every corner feels like a story waiting to be discovered.
Top Travel Tips for Ksamil,Albania
If you want your Albanian adventure to feel smooth, magical, and a little less chaotic, here are a list of few things I wish someone had told me before I visit:
Bring Water Shoes, seriously.
Most of Albania’s beaches are stony, and the best hidden spots caves, coves, and those unreal turquoise patches are impossible to enjoy without them.
I carried water shoes, a snorkel mask, and even a wetsuit, and they made exploring remote islands and quiet secret beaches feels better. It’s like exploring a whole other side of the coastline.
Albania is Safe.You can travel independently without worrying. No need to spend money on hefty priced organized trips when the country is easy to navigate on your own and full of warm welcoming people.
Pack Sunscreen (50+) and good sunglasses.
The Albanian sun doesn’t play around, especially near the water.
Renting a Car is affordable.
The roads aren’t perfect, but if you stick to the main ones, you’ll be fine.